The Golden State Warriors’ defense has been anchored by Draymond Green for over a decade, and the best to ever play recognize his greatness.
The Warriors quickly ascended into dynasty status in the late 2010s behind one of the most dominant stretches in recent sports history. Making five straight NBA Finals and winning three championships in four years cemented Golden State’s status as an all-time unit.
Add in the team’s 2022 championship, and Green has had his fingerprints all over one of the most successful stretches the league has ever seen. While some would argue that the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year is overrated, those who have seen similar success certainly respect his game.
High praise from a legend
In a recent episode of his Wy Network podcast, Dwyane Wade explained why Green’s greatness can’t be simplified to his individual efforts. While his status as an all-time great defender and Hall of Famer is undeniable, Wade explained that Green’s contributions to his team’s success are as valuable as anyone’s.
“I just think if someone wants to argue about Draymond’s individual ranking, they just want to argue,” Wade said. “That’s just a person who want to hear their voice and want to argue. Like Draymond Green’s career will not be talked about him as an individual player. It would be talked about him as a winner, as a team player, as a leader, all these things.”
While Green has racked up an impressive individual resume throughout his career, his impact on the Warriors’ dominance is far more important. Considering Wade is a three-time champion and 2006 Finals MVP, he knows exactly what it takes to win at the highest level, especially with a target on your back every season.
